After a number of malware attacks on Android, including some running with Angry Birds, Google has responded by removing almost 100 applications identified to be harmful to smartphones. Sprint, however, is keen on increasing its customers’ protection– as a result, it partners with Lookout Inc. to launch a free Lookout Mobile Security, an Android security app. It has a premium version, released late last year.

The app has a Safe Browsing feature for a worry-free browsing and net use, like phone banking, through protection against phishing scams. For malware and spyware detection on apps, the software warns users about potentially dangerous sites they might click on upon scanning the links found on those apps. Apps are also checked whether they are clean or infected. Furthermore, Lookout allows periodic security scans, automatic protection, and prevention of virus transfer from one device to another.

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If you noticed that Lookout Mobile Security functions like a computer antivirus software, it is a response to a study revealing that the percentage of smartphone users falling for mobile scams is three times higher than desktop users. Nevertheless, its features are very apt for smartphones, like aid for lost phones (Phone Locator, loud alarm activation, and automatic GPS enabling), a TRUSTe-cerfified back-up of contacts, and very minimal battery consumption– just the same amount that a 33-second voice call would consume.

“You can browse the web with confidence and we are here to cover your back,” assures Kevin Mahaffey, Lookout’s chief technical officer.